The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) stands as a beacon of artistic expression, showcasing a diverse range of artworks that captivate and challenge audiences. Among its current offerings are three notable exhibitions: KAWS’s “Family,” Sarindar Dhaliwal’s “When I grow up I want to be a namer of paint colours,” and Keith Haring’s “Art is for Everybody.” Each of these exhibitions offers a unique perspective on contemporary art, inviting viewers to engage with a world of vibrant colors, poignant themes, and groundbreaking creativity.
KAWS: “Family” Brian Donnelly, famously known as KAWS, brings his unique blend of art, popular culture, and commerce to the AGO with his exhibition “Family.” This marks KAWS’s first Canadian museum solo show, spanning over 75 artworks, including sculptures, paintings, sketches, and collaborative pieces. The centerpiece, a larger-than-life bronze sculpture titled “FAMILY” (2021), showcases KAWS’ distinct characters in a depiction of a nuclear family. Below is an audio description of KAWS’ work at the AGO:
The Toronto Guardian review describes the exhibition as a journey that initially invokes joy with its whimsical characters, only to reveal deeper, more contemplative layers. “At first glance, visitors may feel a sense of joy… But then, it doesn’t take long for another emotion to sink in“. KAWS’s work, initially grounded in street culture, has evolved, demonstrating his adeptness in marrying commercial and high art.
Sarindar Dhaliwal: “When I grow up I want to be a namer of paint colours” Sarindar Dhaliwal’s solo exhibition at the AGO presents a captivating exploration of memory, identity, and migration. The exhibition, showcasing over 40 years of Dhaliwal’s artmaking, features a blend of drawings, mixed media works, large-scale installations, and photography. The vividness of Dhaliwal’s work, intertwined with her personal narrative, offers a poignant commentary on her experiences and observations.
Dhaliwal’s exhibition is characterized by her intense use of color and compelling imagery, creating an immersive experience that invites viewers to reflect on broader themes of cultural heritage and personal identity. The exhibition’s title piece, “When I grow up I want to be a namer of paint colours,” exemplifies Dhaliwal’s skill in using color to evoke emotion and tell stories.
Keith Haring: “Art is for Everybody” “Art is for Everybody” celebrates the legacy of Keith Haring, showcasing over 120 pieces of his work, including vibrant paintings, drawings, and archival materials. This exhibition gives a comprehensive look at Haring’s career, highlighting his distinctive style marked by energetic linework, bold colors, and iconic symbols.
The exhibition’s impact is captured in a review from the New Haven Independent, which notes the emotional resonance of Haring’s art: “The first room’s walls backhand visitors with orange and hot-pink stripes… Haring’s artwork continues to dissolve barriers between art and life and spread joy”. Haring’s work, deeply rooted in activism, particularly in the context of the AIDS crisis, presents a compelling narrative that intertwines his personal journey with broader social issues.
